Quote Originally Posted by mrtr33 View Post
I agree with your assertion that they think 'the more hops the better', but in my opinion, it ends up getting in the way. I also think, that the alcohol percentage is too high as well. Which I find curious: the higher-alcohol content requires more work, money and time.
Interesting thoughts. I agree somewhat, the hop contest is sometimes excessive but considering how fast hops taper in beer, if you don't like something that's too hoped simply sit on it and some of the issue will naturally be mitigated.

The high alcohol is also sometimes challenging to say the least, but in defense, higher octane ales typically stand up better to time. I don't know if it's a Cali thing but my consumption of ales that have seen at least 3 years cellar time has increased dramatically. At the same time, I drink far fewer/less often.